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Step 1
The first thing to keep in mind, is that varnish that contains tung oil will be more water retardant than varnish that contains linseed oil.
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Step 2
If you want a varnish for outdoors use, such as a boat or basic outdoors furniture, I would suggest using either spar varnish or phenolic resin. The downfall with these is that they are thick and over time will gain a yellow hue.
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Step 3
Polyurethane varnish is best for use on everyday pieces that are constantly used. Not only will they be able to hold up to a lot more excessive use, but polyurethane varnish also only takes 4 hours to dry rather than the standard 24 hours. It also dries evenly, and there's no need to be so concerned with the brush strokes showing up uneven. However, I do not suggest using it on fine woods due to the fact it ends up with a consistency more like plastic than wood. It also is difficult to remove, often times requiring an electric sander.
